In the season finale episode of VOX Talk we feature my BFF (Best Friends Forever) Christina Bradshaw. We met over 20 years ago because of the events industry and have developed a beautiful and everlasting friendship at play and at work!  Join us as we dive into the vibrant world of colour and design with Christina Bradshaw, a seasoned expert with an extensive background in building client brands both on social media and in print. With over 20 years of experience at Revolve (now Believeco), Christina has worn many hats, including account manager, graphic designer, and manager of corporate events and fundraising sponsorships. Christina is a graduate of Toronto's Ryerson University, where she earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in New Media with focused studies in Graphic and Interactive Design. Her background in art and design, combined with her spirited personality, adds a unique flair to every project she undertakes. Throughout her career, Christina has branded several marquee events, such as the Great Big Dig for the IWK, The Mental Health Foundation's Festival of Trees & A Different Stage of Mind, Junior Achievement Nova Scotia's Business Hall of Fame, and Hospice Halifax's Feeling The Love. Currently, Christina freelances as a graphic designer and offers Colour Analysis services through her business, High Chroma. Her passion for design and enthusiasm for colour have led her on an exciting journey into Colour Analysis. Christina empowers others with the knowledge of which colours best highlight their natural beauty. Her in-person sessions offer a personal consultation designed to boost confidence by understanding one’s optimal colour palette. Using principles of colour science and theory, this time-tested process helps individuals discover the colours that bring out their best selves. Tune in to learn more about Christina's journey, her insights into the world of design and colour, and how she can help find the perfect palette for you.   Christina, along with my podcast producer Mike Ryan help me wrap up Season 1 of VOX Talk. A big THANK YOU to them for all their support and to YOU the listeners for tuning in.  Steph’s Sites: Vox Agency: https://www.voxagency.ca/ Vox on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/voxagency/ https://www.facebook.com/voxmanagementagency    Email Steph: stephanie@voxagency.ca   Intro and Outro Song: “Freetime” by Caledonia Christina’s Sites: @_high_chroma_

In this episode, we sit down with Danny Thomas, a seasoned professional in multiple areas of the music industry. Danny's impressive skills have seen him traverse Canada and beyond, collaborating with a wide range of performers, venues and festivals. His extensive portfolio includes significant events such as the 2010 Vancouver Olympics, the JUNO Awards, The Grey Cup, East Coast Music Week, The Halifax Pop Explosion, touring with Great Big Sea, and much more. Danny's expertise and passion for his craft also led him to co-own Rockbound Productions with his wife and partner Andrea Thomas, where he continues to leave his mark on the industry. He started playing drums in bands in 1982, and shortly after started “Peace Accord” where he organized festivals that both showcased music and highlighted social issues at the time. Before his illustrious career as a technical director, Danny was part of the Canadian funk rock band Thomas Trio and the Red Albino. Formed in 1988 in St. John's, Newfoundland, the band included Danny and his brothers Louis and David ("Lil") Thomas, with Jody Richardson joining soon after as the vocalist. The band gained recognition with their debut album "Jam It Inya" and hit singles "142 Thru" and "Sun Risin'". They drove 264,000km in 2 years with his band, crossing Canada 14 times in that span. Their dynamic live performances and critical success, including a CASBY Award for Favourite New Eastern Canadian Group, cemented their place in the Canadian music scene. Despite disbanding in 1993, Thomas Trio and the Red Albino left an indelible legacy, with Danny transitioning into a successful technical career supporting other prominent acts. Join us as Danny shares insights from his journey, from the energetic days of touring with his band to his pivotal role in managing large-scale productions and festivals. This episode is a treasure trove of stories and experiences that highlight the evolution of a dedicated professional in the ever-changing world of music and entertainment. Steph’s Sites: Vox Agency: https://www.voxagency.ca/ Vox on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/voxagency/ https://www.facebook.com/voxmanagementagency    Email Steph: stephanie@voxagency.ca   Intro and Outro Song: “Freetime” by Caledonia Danny’s Sites: @dannyt_thomas 

Beginning Wednesday, May 1st, tune into "Vox Talk"— a podcast diving into the behind the scenes view of the live music and events industry. Hosted by Stephanie Purcell, she and her team at Vox have booked talent for corporate and special events for 20 years. They've worked with some of the best of the best in Canadian talent—and they've got stories to share. Tune in to hear how shows and events come to life, and hear from the people who make it happen. 

In this episode, we explore the intriguing journey of Karen Spaulding, a dynamic business leader with many accomplishments to her name. Karen's story is one of diverse experiences, from the world of corporate finance and tech startups to her passionate stewardship of a beloved music venue — The Carleton. 

Born and raised in Liverpool, Nova Scotia, Karen embarked on her academic journey by earning a BSc (Hons in Biology) from Queen’s University and an MBA from the University of Western Ontario. Her professional career began in Halifax, working first in Finance and then in IT. Karen's life took a turn when she moved to San Jose, California working as a business manager and later relocating to Burnaby, British Columbia, working in various roles, from insurance brokering to engagements with Orca Entertainment, supporting Vancouver sports teams.

Returning to Halifax, Karen continued freelancing, initially within her family business, Mersey Seafoods. Her entrepreneurial spirit led her to tech startup Metaworks, where she began as an investor and advisor before eventually becoming the owner and President.

A notable chapter in Karen’s journey is her connection with The Carleton, a renowned music venue in Halifax. As a long-time fan and patron, she attended her first major show there in 2009, featuring Ron Sexsmith—a pivotal moment for her. 

Years later, aware of the venue's struggles during the construction of the nearby convention centre, Karen was disheartened by the prospect of losing this iconic establishment.

In January 2017, after reading an article on AllNovaScotia.com about a failed sale attempt, Karen decided to take action. With her responsibilities at Metaworks winding down and having the financial capacity to invest, she met with the venue’s owner, Mike Campbell, and four months later, she officially purchased The Carleton. What began as a hands-off investment evolved into a hands-on role as Karen dedicated herself to restoring the venue to its former glory.

Under her leadership, The Carleton has flourished, earning numerous accolades, including two Nova Scotia Music Awards, three East Coast Music Awards, two Canada Live Music Awards, and one Restaurant Association of Nova Scotia Award.

Karen Spaulding’s story is a testament to her adaptability, business acumen, and passion for community and the arts. Join us as we delve into her multifaceted career and the inspiring journey that led her to become a pivotal figure in Halifax’s vibrant music scene.

 

Steph’s Sites:

Vox Agency: https://www.voxagency.ca/

Vox on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/voxagency/

https://www.facebook.com/voxmanagementagency 

 

Email Steph: stephanie@voxagency.ca

 

Intro and Outro Song: “Freetime” by Caledonia

 

Karen’s Sites:

https://www.thecarleton.ca/

@carletonhalifax

Liam Hennessey was a pharmaceutical rep, massage therapist, and aspiring vet before he became a photographer. In this episode, we sit down with Liam Hennesey, a fearless entrepreneur and wildly talented photographer who has spent the last 15 years revolutionizing the photography industry. From the inception of Applehead Studio to the creation of Pineapple Studio, Liam shares his journey of shooting weddings across the globe, capturing portraits of high-profile figures, shooting concerts and special events and diving into the world of volume photography. We learn about how he learned about rejection from being a drug rep and how he applied it to being a business owner. We dive into his evolution as a wedding photographer into family shots and headshots, and how he created a full team of photographers at Applehead Studio. Starting Applehead Studio with a vision to reinvent the business of photography, Liam and his partner Steph have made waves in the industry, shooting weddings from New Zealand to New Waterford and creating stunning portraits for Premiers, Mayors, and Army Generals. Their latest venture, Pineapple Studio, has brought a fresh perspective to school photography. Liam's a risk-taker and boundary-pusher, never satisfied with the status quo. He's a devoted father to two teenage girls, Lola and Ruby, a long-standing member of the Ten Club, and an ultra runner with a newfound passion for trail running. Known for his brutal honesty and genuine passion, Liam is a huge supporter of the local photography community. His motto, “fuck it, let’s just see what happens if…”, perfectly encapsulates his approach to life and business. Steph’s Sites: Vox Agency: https://www.voxagency.ca/ Vox on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/voxagency/ https://www.facebook.com/voxmanagementagency    Email Steph: stephanie@voxagency.ca   Intro and Outro Song: “Freetime” by Caledonia

Connect with Liam:

• Website: Applehead Studio
• Instagram: @appleheadstudio
• Facebook: Applehead Studio

In this episode, we dive deep into the heart and soul of Cape Breton Island's very own Dave Sampson. Known for his introspective lyrics and soulful melodies, Dave has become a beloved figure in the Canadian music scene. We'll explore his East Coast roots, the inspirations behind his music, and the journey that has led him to critical acclaim and a devoted fanbase. Tune in for an intimate session filled with stories, music, and the essence of what makes Dave Sampson a dynamic and engaging performer.

 

Dave talks about what songwriting means to him and how he developed into a session co-writer in Nashville. He has collaborated with some of Canada’s top exports such as Classified, Alan Doyle, Donovan Woods & Neon Dreams as well as being chosen as one of five in Canada’s Walk of Fame emerging artist program. Dave has been working hard to solidify his position as one of Canada’s top emerging songwriters. 

 

 In 2016 Dave's song "No Pressure" was sampled by Canadian Hip Hop icon Classified and released as his first single via Atlantic Records with Snoop Dogg. Since the release, the song went certified Gold in Canada. 

 

Steph’s Sites:

Vox Agency: https://www.voxagency.ca/

Vox on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/voxagency/

https://www.facebook.com/voxmanagementagency 

 

Email Steph: stephanie@voxagency.ca

 

Intro and Outro Song: “Freetime” by Caledonia

Produced by Mike Ryan: https://www.instagram.com/michael_s_ryan/

 

Dave’s Sites:

https://davesampson.ca/

@dave.sampson

In this inspiring episode, we dive deep into the career and insights of Stefanie Purificati, a renowned booking agent at The Feldman Agency. With nearly 20 years of experience in the live music industry, Stefanie shares her journey, challenges, and triumphs, highlighting her rise to prominence in a male-dominated field.

Stefanie began her career in the music business after earning her B.A. from York University and attending Harris Institute for the Arts. Some of her earlier roles include production coordinator and live music programmer at The Drake Hotel, and working at The Agency Group under the mentorship of Jack Ross, where she progressed to a full-fledged booking agent.

 

She provides insights on being a woman in the live music sector, detailing the unique challenges she has faced. Stefanie emphasizes the importance of supportive mentors and allies in her career and reflects on how the landscape has evolved for female agents over the years.

She discusses her love for music and her clients, how her and Steph have A LOT in common, and at multiple times in the conversation has Steph’s cat Maisie jump onto her lap for some cuddle time. 

 

Steph’s Sites:

Vox Agency: https://www.voxagency.ca/

Vox on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/voxagency/

https://www.facebook.com/voxmanagementagency 

 

Email Steph: stephanie@voxagency.ca 

 

Intro and Outro Song: “Freetime” by Caledonia 

Produced by Mike Ryan: https://www.instagram.com/michael_s_ryan/

 

Stefanie

https://www.instagram.com/stefffy_p/

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Jennifer Parkhill, one of Halifax’s premier event planners. With over 25 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Jennifer specializes in event management, bringing unparalleled excellence to every project. In this episode, Jennifer shares her journey, insights, and the philosophy that drives her success: “work hard, have fun, laugh and be part of something to be proud of.” She shares tips for aspiring event planners, how to balance creativity with practicality, and the importance of attention to detail. Tune in to discover how Jennifer combines innovative concepts with practical solutions to create seamless, memorable events. Steph’s Sites: Vox Agency: https://www.voxagency.ca/ Vox on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/voxagency/ https://www.facebook.com/voxmanagementagency    Email Steph: stephanie@voxagency.ca   Intro and Outro Song: “Freetime” by Caledonia Produced by Mike Ryan: https://www.instagram.com/michael_s_ryan/ Jennifer https://parkhillevents.com/

In this episode we sit down with Danielle Lemieux, a seasoned veteran in working behind the scenes of events and productions. Danielle has a passion for creating unforgettable experiences and adding her flair to everything she works on. With a diverse background spanning the Northern Ontario music and film sector to her current endeavors in her home of Halifax, Nova Scotia, Danielle brings a wealth of knowledge and a unique perspective to the world of event production. Her approach is characterized by her meticulous attention to detail and her ability to see the bigger picture. Drawing from her diverse skill set, which includes expertise in live audio, festival management, talent negotiations, and promotional consulting, she navigates the complexities of event management with special attention to detail. From coordinating with suppliers and artists to liaising with venues and agents, Danielle is the driving force behind the scenes, ensuring that the production is ready for the talent's arrival and the artists are well cared for. Her organizational prowess and knack for problem-solving make her an invaluable asset to any team.

 

Steph’s Sites:

Vox Agency: https://www.voxagency.ca/

Vox on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/voxagency/

https://www.facebook.com/voxmanagementagency 

 

Email Steph: stephanie@voxagency.ca 

 

Intro and Outro Song: “Freetime” by Caledonia 

Produced by Mike Ryan: https://www.instagram.com/michael_s_ryan/

 

Danielle

https://www.voxagency.ca/our-team

 

The amazing Neville MacKay has owned an operated “My Mother’s Bloomers” in Halifax for over 30 years. He's designed floral arrangements for celebrities and Heads of State, including Rod Stewart, Glen Close, Sirs Elton John and Paul McCartney and members of the British Royal Family. Brimming with humour and charisma, Neville sits down with Steph to tell stories about how flowers came into his life, where they’ve taken him, and shares countless anecdotes from his adventure filled life. This episode is sure to make you smile and appreciate the simple beauty of having flowers in your world. Neville is well known throughout the Floral Industry and beyond for his creative flare, quality workmanship and entertaining personality. He is a successful business person, speaker, host and author.

 

Steph’s Sites:

Vox Agency: https://www.voxagency.ca/

Vox on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/voxagency/

https://www.facebook.com/voxmanagementagency 

Email Steph: stephanie@voxagency.ca 

Intro and Outro Song: “Freetime” by Caledonia 

Produced by Mike Ryan: https://www.instagram.com/michael_s_ryan/

Neville's Sites:

My Mother’s Bloomers: https://www.facebook.com/mymothersbloomers/

Instagram: @mymothersbloomers

www.mymothersbloomers.com

 

Steph sits down with FREE PEOPLE’s Nicole Langille, an award winning event planner and marketing expert. They talk about behind the scenes of bringing an event to life, organizing the various aspects and logistics involved, the joy of seeing it all come together, and the monumental task of creating Deloitte Canada’s 2022 Corporate Event. Nicole has won prestigious awards including Canadian Events Awards “Best Corporate Event” in 2023 and MPI’s “Event of the Year”. Her diverse portfolio includes event production and hosting high profile clients from as far away as Asia, Latin America and back to her home in Atlantic Canada. 

 

Steph’s Sites:

Vox Agency: https://www.voxagency.ca/

Vox on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/voxagency/

https://www.facebook.com/voxmanagementagency 

 

Email Steph: stephanie@voxagency.ca 

 

Intro and Outro Song: “Freetime” by Caledonia 

Produced by Mike Ryan: https://www.instagram.com/michael_s_ryan/

 

Nicole’s Sites:

FREE PEOPLE Website: https://www.freepeoplemarketing.com/

Instagram: @freepeolemarketing  

https://www.facebook.com/FreePeopleMarketing

Rankin MacInnis is a true community builder. A recipient of Music Nova Scotia’s Entertainer of the Year award, the title couldn’t be more fitting. His infectious energy, authenticity, and passion for community have made him a beloved presence both within the industry and among audiences on the east coast.

Hailing from Cape Breton Island, he carries the values of his roots into every performance and project. As a bandleader and industry champion, Rankin is known for creating opportunities that unite seasoned professionals and emerging talent, fostering collaboration across generations of artists.

His commitment to community extends far beyond the stage. Rankin invests deeply in the people around him, building spaces where both performers and audiences feel welcome. Best known for his Rankin Winter Warmers, a sold-out weekly winter concert series, he has created a beloved gathering place that brings people from all walks of life together during the coldest months of the year.

Looking ahead, Rankin continues to build momentum both as a performer and community leader. With new music on the way, including a forthcoming record and a collection of singles set to start releasing this summer.

 

@rankinmacinnis

Intro and Outro Song: “Freetime: by Caledonia 

Produced by Mike Ryan: @michael_s_ryan

#goodpeoplebooked

#voxtalk

In this special episode Stephanie sits down with her long time client and member of the Vox roster, Tareq Hadhad who arrived in Canada in December 2015. Tareq started working with Vox in early 2017 and it’s been a pretty wild ride bringing Tareq to stages all around the world, meeting leaders of countries and thousands of people. In this interview you’ll hear about the importance of getting the message right at his keynotes, the new opportunities you don’t see coming in business and the rollercoaster ride of entrepreneurship. Tareq says “Entrepreneurship is like jumping off a cliff and building a plane on the way down.” Both Stephanie and Tareq run businesses and have grown together over the last eight years as they build his speaking career that has brought him all across Canada and to many countries like Japan, Mexico, the United States and various destinations in Europe. Their life changing partnership has opened doors neither of them ever imagined and are excited for the many new opportunities to come.

@peacebychocolate @tareqhadhad   #goodpeoplebooked #voxtalk #letstalk

It’s Tia Upshaw’s season!! Let’s talk about a go get ‘em, no nonsense, women in business champion, community cheerleader who is oozing in her black power. Tia is a force. The newest addition to the VOX roster, Steph and Tia sit down, meeting in real life for the first time. They talk about Tia’s life and career and how she has discovered it’s her season to blossom. You’ll hear about the value of mentors, a love of fashion and design, life goals, the highs and lows of entrepreneurship and the drive that led her to be an award winning success story. Her work has not only driven economic growth in her community but has also set a new standard for inclusive leadership and social impact. As the founder and CEO of Blk Women in Excellence, Tia has built a powerful platform dedicated to uplifting and empowering Black women entrepreneurs. 

 

@itistiaupshaw

@blkwomeninexcellence

Intro and Outro Song: “Freetime: by Caledonia 

Produced by Mike Ryan: @michael_s_ryan

#goodpeoplebooked

#voxtalk

Stephanie sits down to chat with one of her best friends she’s known and worked with for nearly 20 years. They reminisce of their time working with Zac’s band, Caledonia, producing the documentary Paddle to the Ocean, his speaking career as a member of the VOX roster and his newest serious leisure love of stand up comedy. Zac openly talks about living with PTSD and the stigma that still surrounds mental illness. They laugh about days on tour (pre cell phones), his relationship with religion, their early days in the music industry, growing cannabis, the importance of practicing your craft, dark humour and how his new serious leisure activity is helping him and others laugh while healing from grief and trauma. Two friends, two mics, sitting at a kitchen table where they have laughed and hung out at many times. 

 

#zaccrouse

 

Intro and Outro Song: “Freetime: by Caledonia 

Produced by Mike Ryan: @michael_s_ryan

#goodpeoplebooked

#voxtalk

Let’s talk about cats!! The Founder of My Grandfather’s Cat, Angela Rafuse is helping animals, seniors and terminally ill people. Through her cat content, she has amassed a record following making her charity the most followed Canadian charity on Instagram. The charity was inspired by her personal experience adopting her grandfather’s 14-year old grumpy cat, Mackenzie, when he passed away. In only a few short years the charity has helped nearly 1000 cats. Her viral content has garnered her over 645,000 followers on TikTok. Angela’s dedication has earned her national and international recognition. Her work has been featured by People Magazine, Good News Network, and countless Canadian news outlets. She has been named one of Atlantic Canada Business Magazine’s Top 30 Under 30 Innovators, received a nomination for Forbes Top 30 Under 30, and the title of Animal Nonprofit CEO of the Year by the Canadian CEO Awards.

 

@angrafus3

@mygrandfatherscat

 

Intro and Outro Song: “Freetime: by Caledonia 

Produced by Mike Ryan: @michael_s_ryan

#goodpeoplebooked

#voxtalk

Steve Murphy is a beloved and respected personality in Atlantic Canada. How fun to share some time with him at the kitchen table and talk to one of our good people. Steve joined many maritimers in their homes at the dinner hour live from the CTV news desk for three decades. He is a firm believer in delivering the news based on facts and not opinions. After a lifetime of reporting news and showcasing the opinions of others, Steve now expresses his own opinions on the things he’s done and the people he’s met along the way. These days you’ll see Steve delivering keynote speeches, hosting events and a special correspondent, commentator and analyst for CTV Atlantic. 

 

@stevemurphyspeaks

 

Intro and Outro Song: “Freetime: by Caledonia 

Produced by Mike Ryan: @michael_s_ryan

#goodpeoplebooked

#voxtalk

Season 2 of VOX Talk is coming May 21st! Tune in to for thoughtful conversations with the best of the best in Canadian talent. 

 

Intro and Outro Song: “Freetime: by Caledonia 

Produced by Mike Ryan: @michael_s_ryan

#goodpeoplebooked

#voxtalk

For more than 26 years, Jeff Mosher has been the frontman of one of Halifax’s most beloved bands, The Mellotones. Join us for a conversation about the band’s journey, their lasting impact on the East Coast music scene, and how Jeff became one of the region’s most recognizable voices.

His name may not always be the first one that comes to mind, but the moment The Mellotones strike a chord and Jeff begins to sing, there’s no mistaking who’s on stage. His unmistakable voice has become a defining sound of East Coast music and helped build a loyal following across generations.

Jeff credits much of his success to consistency—playing regular weekly gigs and putting in the “10,000 hours” required to master the craft. Along the way, he’s collected unforgettable stories, including surprise sit-ins and performances with legendary names like David Foster, Dan Aykroyd, Nathan East, and even Dennis Rodman.

Beyond their own success, The Mellotones have become one of the region’s most respected backing bands, sharing the stage with countless artists, including a long-running collaboration with Matt Andersen.

As The Mellotones prepare to celebrate their 30th anniversary in 2027, Jeff will share what’s next for the band, including plans for a special all-ages celebration that promises to bring fans together for a memorable night of music and nostalgia.

@mellometric  @themellotones # Hosted by : @purcell.steph # #

Intro and Outro Song: “Freetime: by Caledonia 

Produced by Mike Ryan: @michael_s_ryan

#goodpeoplebooked

#voxtalk

Meagan Davidson is a lifelong music fan who turned her passion into a career—how fun is that? With a deep knowledge of both emerging and established Canadian talent, Meagan has built a reputation as a trusted industry resource, known for her expertise in talent curation, artist consulting, and fostering meaningful connections within the music community.

Over the past year and a half, Meag has become an integral part of the VOX team. She quickly stepped into the agent role, handling talent bookings and securing artists for major national events across the East Coast. Meag’s energy, authenticity, and enthusiasm make her a natural fit for the team. Her passion for the live music industry shines through in everything she does, from championing artist development to building her own professional brand and contributing to the growth of the Canadian music ecosystem.

In this episode, Meag shares her career journey and the many ways she supports the industry. In addition to her work with VOX, she is an artist manager and co-owner of the independent label Tiny Kingdom Music, based on Canada’s West Coast, which she operates alongside her business partner and close friend. Join us as we explore her path, her love of the music, and her commitment to helping artists thrive.

@meagandavidson 

@tinykingdommusic 

 

Intro and Outro Song: “Freetime: by Caledonia 

Produced by Mike Ryan: @michael_s_ryan

#goodpeoplebooked

#voxtalk